Pilot study on consumption trends of migrant workers in Lebanon

L'Orient le Jour published an article last Saturday on the results of a study it undertook on the “economic contribution of migrant workers from South Asia”.  The newspaper interviewed several migrant workers from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and India who represent the highest numbers of migrant workers in Lebanon in order to determine their consumption trends. To be noted that, according to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Lebanon, the number of incoming migrant workers decreased over the past few years in view of the deteriorating security condition in the country and the impoverishment of many Lebanese families.

On the consumption trend of migrant workers, the newspaper revealed that out of the average total income of USD 400 to USD 500, some USD 100 to USD 200 are spent on accommodation, and USD 40 on electricity and water bills. The study indicated that food consumption differs according to nationality.  Migrant workers from Bangladesh spend some USD 100 monthly on food compared to USD 200 for Sri Lankans.  Transportation expense is estimated at LBP 100,000 a month, while residency fees amount to LBP 500,000 per year Finally, some USD 50 are spent on clothing every two to three months while remittances to their families abroad are estimated at a total of USD 1000 per year.

Source: L’Orient Le Jour 4 October 2014